Councillors have had their say on proposals to reduce speed limits on two major roads. 

If proposals go ahead, Leeds City Council would reduce the speed limit on A6110/A6120 Outer Ring Road and A647 Stanningley Bypass to 50mph, replacing the existing 60mph and 70mph sections.

It is part of the Government’s £20 million investment for Leeds’ Levelling Up Fund.

In a T&A reader poll, almost 60 per cent of T&A readers said the speed limit should not be reduced.

But some councillors have called for action along what was branded a “dangerous” stretch of road. 

Councillor Kevin Ritchie (Bramley & Stanningley, Labour) said his constituents have previously raised concerns about the section from Rodley to Horsforth roundabout A6120. 

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Expressing his support for 50mph speed limits, he also called for more speed enforcements - with or without the changes - and an accessible footbridge to Calverley Lane for Horsforth Vale and canal access.

Cllr Peter Carlill (Calverley and Farsley Ward, Labour) said: “Areas of the ring road and bypass are dangerous for all road users, serious accidents are all too common, and fatalities in the area have been devastating. 

“Some areas are prone to dangerous and illegal driving which are a hazard and nuisance to local residents.

“Road safety has always been a priority of mine so reducing speeds on this dangerous route is something I have called for, as well as speed cameras on this and the neighbouring section of the A647 - Bradford Road via Thornbury Barracks to Dick Lane - to ensure it is adhered to. 

“I have therefore confirmed to officers that I very much support the move, and that I expect to see it enforced by speed cameras as soon as practicably possible.”

Councillor Andrew Carter CBE (Calverley & Farsley, Conservative), expressed his support for speed limit reductions. 

He is calling for the the Government-funded work to provide safer walking routes, a segregated cycle way that doesn’t interfere with road capacity along the ring road between Horsforth, Rodley and Dawson’s Corner.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

He is also leading calls for a safe footbridge between Calverley Lane, Farsley and Calverley Lane, Calverley.

Cllr Carter said: “Indeed speed cameras were part of the bid that was successful in getting government funding of £20m.

“I have been leading the campaign for speed cameras on the A647. There has already been a tragic fatality and Leeds City Council must act on this stretch of road now.”